Ontario Phone Use While Driving: Handheld Tickets, and G1/G2 Penalties
March 3, 2026
Getting a speeding ticket in Ontario is common, but that does not make it any less serious. Even a relatively low-speed offence can carry lasting consequences for your driving record and insurance.
In this article, the experts at Traffic Ticket Advocates explain how speeding tickets work in Ontario, how fines and demerit points are calculated, what changed in school and community safety zones, and what your options are before paying a ticket.
What Counts as a Speeding Offence in Ontario?
Under the Highway Traffic Act (section 128), a speeding offence occurs when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit. Penalties increase based on how far over the limit you were alleged to be driving.
Not all speeding tickets are treated the same, though. Some carry only a fine, while others add demerit points or escalate into more serious charges.
Key distinctions include:
- Fines vs. convictions: Paying a ticket results in a conviction on your driving record
- Demerit points vs. insurance: Points affect licensing; insurers focus on convictions
- Speed range matters: The number of kilometres over the limit determines penalties
Speeding Fines in Ontario: How Much Will a Ticket Cost?
Speeding fines in Ontario are set by the court and are based on kilometres per hour over the speed limit. However, when all is taken into consideration, the dollar amount printed on the ticket is often not the final cost.
Typical ranges include:
- 1–15 km/h over: Fine only, no demerit points
- 16–29 km/h over: Higher base fine plus demerit 3 points
- 30–49 km/h over: Significant fine with 4 points
- 50+ km/h over: May trigger stunt driving charges and 6 demerit points
In addition to the base fine, drivers also pay a victim fine surcharge and court costs. As a result, a ticket for 16–29 km/h over the limit often totals $200–$500, and higher speeds can exceed that; fines are doubled in Community Safety Zones and construction zones when workers are present.
Demerit Points for Speeding in Ontario
Demerit points are applied only after a conviction and remain on your Ministry of Transportation record for two years.
- 1–15 km/h over: 0 points
- 16–29 km/h over: 3 points
- 30–49 km/h over: 4 points
- 50+ km/h over: 6 points
Points can contribute to licence suspensions if enough accumulate, especially for novice drivers. However, even zero-point speeding convictions can still affect insurance premiums.
When Does Speeding Become Stunt Driving?
Certain speeds automatically elevate a speeding allegation into stunt driving under section 172 of the Highway Traffic Act. This is a separate and far more serious offence.
Stunt driving thresholds include:
- 40 km/h over where the speed limit is under 80 km/h
- 50 km/h over where the speed limit is 80 km/h or higher
- 150 km/h or more anywhere
If charged, drivers face immediate roadside penalties, including:
- A 30 day licence suspension
- A 14 day Vehicle impoundment
- Significant court penalties if convicted
These cases require prompt legal guidance due to the immediate consequences involved.
How Speeding Tickets Affect Insurance Rates
Insurance companies assess risk based on convictions, not demerit points. This means even a single speeding ticket can raise your premiums.
- Minor speeding (16–29 km/h): Often increases premiums by 10–25%, depending on the insurance provider.
- Major speeding (30–49 km/h): Increases of 25–50% or more, depending on the Insurance provider.
- Stunt driving: Can lead to high-risk insurance or policy cancellation
A single minor speeding conviction can cost drivers over $900–$1,000 in additional premiums over three years, according to Ratehub.ca. Multiple convictions compound quickly and can push drivers into high-risk insurance categories.
Speeding Tickets for Novice Drivers (G1, G2, M1, M2)
Novice drivers with graduated licences face stricter consequences for speeding offences.
- A 30+ km/h speeding conviction triggers an automatic 30-day suspension
- Repeat offences result in longer suspensions
- Further violations can lead to licence cancellation and restarting the licensing process.
Because thresholds are lower, even moderate speeding can have serious licensing consequences for novice drivers.
Speeding in School Zones and Community Safety Zones: What Changed in 2025?
In 2025, Ontario repealed municipal Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) programs. Speed cameras in school zones and community safety zones were removed across the province, but laws still remain.
- Speed limits remain in place
- Community Safety Zones still exist
- Doubled fines still apply when enforced by police
Before their removal, speed cameras clearly influenced driver behaviour. A 2025 CAA survey found 73% of Ontario drivers slowed down when approaching ASE cameras, and 23% reported receiving a camera-issued ticket.
Enforcement has now shifted back to police officers, along with updated provincial standards for school zone signage. While some municipalities have lowered local speed limits, there is no province-wide mandatory 30 km/h school zone rule in effect as of 2025.
Common Mistakes After Getting a Speeding Ticket
Many drivers harm their case unintentionally by acting too quickly or without information. Common mistakes include:
- Paying the ticket without understanding insurance consequences
- Missing the 15-day deadline to dispute the charge
- Assuming low-speed tickets do not matter
- Waiting too long to seek legal advice
- Once a ticket is paid, options to challenge it are gone.
How Traffic Ticket Advocates Can Help
Traffic Ticket Advocates has over 30 years of experience defending speeding tickets across York Region, the GTA, Barrie, and Ontario and New York.
Our experts’ approach may include:
- Reviewing disclosure and officer notes
- Examining speed measurement methods and signage
- Negotiating for reduced charges or withdrawals where appropriate
Outcomes depend on the evidence, but early legal involvement often leads to better options.
Contact Traffic Ticket Advocates About Your Speeding Ticket
If you are facing a speeding ticket in Ontario, Traffic Ticket Advocates can help you understand your options and next steps.
Contact us online, or call or text 416-702-7337 today for a free consultation. Our team can clarify potential outcomes and whether disputing the charge makes sense for your situation.
FAQs
Do I have to attend court for a speeding ticket?
In many cases, Traffic Ticket Advocates can attend court on your behalf. This depends on the charge and court requirements.
Will my insurance company find out right away?
Insurers typically learn of a ticket at renewal or when your driving record is reviewed, not immediately after the stop.
Is it worth fighting a low-speed speeding ticket?
Even low-speed tickets can affect insurance. Whether it is worth disputing depends on your record and circumstances.
What if my speed was close to a stunt driving threshold?
These cases are sensitive. Early legal advice is important to avoid escalation or increased penalties.
Can demerit points be reduced or avoided?
Points only apply after conviction. In some cases, charges may be reduced or resolved without points.
What happens if I miss the 15-day deadline?
Failing to respond can result in an automatic conviction and loss of the opportunity to dispute the charge.
